Class groups at Westfield vary in size: our smallest class is currently 5 pupils and our largest is 16. Classes are organised on the basis of ‘best fit’ and, while age is an important consideration, it is by no means the only one. As a consequence, most of our classes are mixed age.

We work really hard every year to get the mix of pupils in a class group right, and this is based on their very individual needs. Belonging to a class group can help children with anxieties and to make friendships which is so important for their social development.

We currently  have 18 class groups spanning the 4-19 age range. The teaching approach adopted for each class is tailored to meet the needs of the pupils within the group.

Some groups are more tailored to a particular approach, for example using strategies for children with autism, with sensory needs, with emotional and mental health needs or attachment needs. There groups tend to be smaller and the approaches are used consistently with them to achieve the best results.